Transverse Wave
A transverse wave is a wave in which the oscillation of the medium is perpendicular (at right angles) to the direction of wave propagation. Light waves, water surface waves, and waves on a stretched string are classic examples. Transverse waves can exhibit polarisation — a property where the oscillations are confined to a single plane — which is impossible in longitudinal waves.
Comparing Transverse and Longitudinal Waves
| Property | Transverse Wave | Longitudinal Wave |
|---|---|---|
| Oscillation direction | Perpendicular to propagation | Parallel to propagation |
| Example | Light, water waves | Sound, P-seismic waves |
| Can be polarised? | Yes | No |
| Medium required? | Not always (light) | Yes (mechanical) |
| Visual appearance | Crests and troughs | Compressions and rarefactions |
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Related Terms
Longitudinal Wave
A longitudinal wave is a wave in which the oscillation of the medium occurs parallel to the direction of wave propagation, creating alternating regions of compression (high pressure) and rarefaction (low pressure). Sound waves in air are the most common example. Because the medium must be compressed and expanded, longitudinal waves require a material medium and cannot travel through a vacuum.
Wave
A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy through a medium or through space without permanently displacing the medium itself. Waves are fundamental to how energy propagates in nature, from ocean ripples to light traveling across the universe. They are characterised by properties such as wavelength, frequency, amplitude, and speed, and underpin technologies ranging from radio communication to medical ultrasound.
Amplitude
Amplitude is the maximum displacement of a wave from its equilibrium (rest) position, representing the "height" of a wave. It is denoted by A and measured in metres for mechanical waves, or in volts, pascals, or other units depending on context. Amplitude is directly related to the energy carried by the wave: the greater the amplitude, the greater the energy, which is why louder sounds and brighter lights have larger amplitudes.
From Latin "transversus" (lying across), from "trans" (across) + "vertere" (to turn). Used in physics to describe waves whose displacement is across the direction of travel.